Using the CERL Pipe Loop System (PLS) to Evaluate Corrosion Inhibitors That Can Reduce Lead in Drinking Water
Abstract
Army Directorates of Engineering and Housing (DEHs) and managers of water utilities must comply with new Federal requirements to reduce copper and lead in drinking water. Because lead and copper are present in water systems as by-products of corrosion, one way to reduce their levels is to control corrosion by adding chemicals that will form a protective scale lining on the plumbing materials. DEHs and utility managers find it difficult to assess distribution systems because the piping usually is inaccessible. They need a reliable method of assessing both the system's condition and the effect of corrosion control additives. A literature review provided information on corrosion inhibitors and case studies conducted to determine corrosion sources and treatment options. The CERL-PLS was then used to determine and compare the effectiveness of three zinc orthophosphate and one bimetallic zinc polyphosphate corrosion inhibitors in tap water. The demonstration also determined the effectiveness of the CERL-PLS in evaluating corrosion inhibitors. All four chemical corrosion inhibitors were effective in controlling corrosion. It is recommended that the CERL-PLS be considered for use by all installations to monitor the effects of water quality on the distribution system and to help evaluate corrosion control alternatives. Pipe Loop System (PLS), Lead, Drinking water, Langelier index, Corrosion control.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Jun 01, 1994
- Accession Number
- ADA283637
Entities
People
- Bill T. Ray
- Gopikrishna Kanchibhatla
- Keith A. Pontow
- Richard J. Scholze
Organizations
- Construction Engineering Research Laboratory